Hitting the open road is a dream we all share, a chance to escape the mundane and explore the world. But while most people dream of flashy sports cars or mammoth SUVs for their grand adventures, let’s take a detour and appreciate some of the underrated heroes of the highway. These 13-road trip-worthy cars may not hog the limelight, but they know how to make every journey memorable. Buckle up and enjoy the ride!
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is like the “mom” of the group, who always has snacks, a first-aid kit, and an uncanny ability to navigate without a map. Equipped with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, it offers unparalleled traction and stability on all surfaces. The Outback features a spacious interior with up to 75.7 cubic feet of cargo space, making it ideal for hauling gear on long road trips. Its ground clearance is 8.7 inches. Like a cherry on top, the Outback has a “flat-four” engine, which sounds like a failed tire but provides a lower center of gravity for better stability. In short, the Outback is ready for any adventure, whether you’re tackling mountain trails or cruising down Route 66.
Honda Element
Introduced in 3003, The Honda Element is the quirky uncle of the car world, with its boxy shape and funky design. It features rear-hinged suicide doors and a spacious cabin with a flat floor, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and pet owners. The Element’s configurable seats can fold to create a bed or be removed entirely for maximum cargo space, accommodating up to 75 cubic feet. It’s like driving a tiny mobile apartment powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine, delivering 166 horsepower and offering both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Since its debut in 1989, the Miata has garnered a cult following, praised for its superb handling, precise steering, and peppy 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The latest model boasts 181 horsepower and a near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, enhancing its agile performance. It has a curb weight of around 2,300 pounds and delivers an elegant, engaging driving experience reminiscent of classic British roadsters but with Japanese reliability. Sure, packing space is minimal, but who needs luggage when you have the wind in your hair?
Volvo V60
Volvo’s V60 wagon combines Swedish style, safety, and practicality. Launched in 2010, the V60 offers a refined driving experience with its range of turbocharged engines, including a fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid option. Known for its exceptional safety features, the V60 includes advanced systems like City Safety with pedestrian and cyclist detection and the “Oncoming Lane Mitigation” system, which sounds like it’s preparing for alien invasions but helps prevent head-on collisions. Its comfortable seats, advanced safety features, and spacious interior make it perfect for those who want to travel in style without screaming, “Look at me!” The V60 is all about low-key luxury.
Kia Soul
The Kia Soul might look like a toaster on wheels, but this compact crossover is deceptively spacious and incredibly fun to drive. Its tech-savvy features include a standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Soul also offers advanced safety features like forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and driver attention warning. Its unique “tiger nose” grille and vibrant color options add to its appeal, making it a standout choice for those seeking a fun, functional, and stylish road trip companion. Plus, you’ll always find it in the parking lot!
Chevrolet Bolt EV
For the eco-conscious road warrior, the Chevy Bolt EV is a game-changer. It boasts an impressive EPA-estimated range of 259 miles on a full charge, making it ideal for long drives and daily commutes. The Bolt EV’s electric motor delivers 200 horsepower and 266 lb.-ft of torque, providing a peppy and responsive driving experience. Charging is convenient, with DC fast charging capability allowing up to 100 miles of range in about 30 minutes. Inside, the Bolt EV offers a spacious and savvy interior with a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Just plan your charging stops wisely!
Ford Flex
The Ford Flex might be the unsung hero of family road trips. Its boxy shape maximizes interior space, with three rows of seats and ample legroom for everyone. It’s like a minivan in disguise without the minivan stigma. The Flex’s refrigerator-sized center console can be equipped with a refrigerator, so your snacks and drinks stay chill – just like you. Plus, it looks fabulous in a retro way.
Mini Cooper Countryman
The Mini Cooper Countryman takes all the charm of the original Mini and stretches it into a crossover SUV. It’s small but mighty, with agile handling and a surprisingly roomy interior. Perfect for those who want a dash of whimsy on their road trip, the Countryman also offers an optional picnic bench that folds out from the trunk—ideal for roadside picnics without the soggy grass.
Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is the poster child for hybrid vehicles, and it’s a stellar road trip car. Hailed as the pioneer of hybrid vehicles, it boasts exceptional fuel efficiency, averaging around 50 miles per gallon. Its aerodynamic design, including a distinctive shape and sleek lines, enhances its eco-friendly performance. The Prius features a regenerative braking system, converting kinetic energy into electricity to recharge the battery while slowing down. Its spacious interior provides ample legroom and cargo space, ensuring comfort for passengers and practicality for road trips.
Chrysler Pacifica
Minivans might not be sexy, but the Chrysler Pacifica is here to change that perception. The Pacifica offers a plug-in hybrid version, so you can feel good about reducing your carbon footprint while your kids watch Frozen for the hundredth time. With its sleek design, advanced tech features, and cavernous interior, the Pacifica makes long drives with the family a breeze. It even has a built-in vacuum for post-snack clean-ups.
Subaru Crosstrek
Another Subaru makes the list because they get road trips. The Crosstrek is a compact crossover with off-road chops. It boasts a rugged exterior with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, perfect for tackling off-road trails and rough terrain. Equipped with Subaru’s legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, the Crosstrek ensures exceptional traction and stability in various driving conditions, from snow-covered roads to muddy paths. It’s perfect for those who like to mix highway miles with dirt trails, almost like having a secret weapon against Mother Nature.
Hyundai Kona
The Hyundai Kona is a spunky little crossover that packs a punch. With its eye-catching design, peppy engine options, and impressive tech features, the Kona is ready to take you on an adventure. Plus, it’s compact enough to navigate city streets with ease. The Kona is also available in a fully electric version, giving you another eco-friendly option for your road trip fleet.
Mazda CX-5
Rounding out our list is the Mazda CX-5, a crossover that combines style, performance, and practicality. Its Advanced safety features, like G-Vectoring Control Plus, enhance cornering stability, making every journey smooth and enjoyable. Under the hood, you’ll find a range of efficient Skyactiv engines that seamlessly balance power and fuel economy. Ample cargo space ensures you can pack everything you need for your adventures, whether a weekend getaway or a cross-country road trip. It’s like having a co-pilot who’s good at physics.
The 10 Most Reliable Car Brands According to Mechanics
When choosing a car, one of the most crucial factors is reliability. But what exactly does it mean when we say a car is reliable? Reliability refers to the vehicle’s ability to perform consistently well over time with minimal issues. A reliable car requires fewer repairs, is cost-effective to maintain, and offers peace of mind to the owner. In this article, we delve into the ten most reliable car brands according to mechanics, explaining why these brands are trusted and highlighting endorsements from institutions, car experts, and reputable websites. The 10 Most Reliable Car Brands According to Mechanics
